NAMM 2015: Moog brings back three legendary large-format modular synthesizers
Meticulously handcrafted recreations of the originals, from 1970s schematics
Moog brings back three legendary large-format modular synthesizers
NAMM 2015: Sure, making music on your smartphone is easy, and you can't beat the portability factor, but if you want to make a statement old-school style, as in "Look at what a great roadie I've got," you can't go wrong with a vintage Moog synthesizer.
And lucky for you (provided you have a boatload of disposable cash), Moog has just announced that it's recommencing production of three of its most epic '70s large-format modular synthesizers on a limited-run basis: the System 55 (55 units till be available, priced at $55,000US), the System 35 (35 units will be available, priced at $22,000US) and the Model 15 (150 units will be available, priced at $10,000US).
Alongside these Moog Modular Systems will be the Sequencer Complement B Expansion Cabinet, an optional accompaniment to the System 35 and System 55 that offers the functionality of two 960 Sequential Controllers (this will set you back $8,500), and a 5-Octave duophonic keyboard ($799,00).
The launches of these 'new' modulars come after Moog announced a production version of the Keith Emerson modular in 2014. This can can be yours for $150,000.
Read on and click through the gallery to find out what Moog has to say about each of its modular systems.
Moog System 55
The Moog System 55 (shown above) modular synthesizer is a highly sophisticated and dynamic analog instrument comprised of 36 handcrafted modules and housed in 2 hand-finished solid walnut cabinets. This magnificent creation provides limitless sonic potential and inspiration, while delivering the depth and dimension of sound found only in a vintage Moog modular synthesizer. The System 55 comes equipped with the coveted 960 Sequential Controller for incorporating extensive rhythmic complexity into the creative process.
The Moog System 35
The Moog System 35 modular synthesizer is a well-refined 5-oscillator instrument comprised of 22 handcrafted analog modules and housed in a hand-finished solid walnut cabinet.
This elegant studio solution has been faithfully recreated to be the centerpiece of inspiration and sound in the modern composition studio and delivers all of the sonic depth and dimension found only in a vintage Moog modular synthesizer.
The Mood Model 15
The Moog Model 15 modular synthesizer is an ultra-powerful, compact studio synthesizer designed for live performance and portability. It is housed in a rugged tolex-encased cabinet and is an ideal solution for the touring synthesist.
The Model 15 design focuses on speed, creativity and simplicity while still providing the enormous sonic depth and dimension found only in a vintage Moog modular synthesizer. The 907 Fixed Filter Bank section of the Model 15 is available in multiple configurations to better suit the needs of the performing musician.
For more information, visit Moog Music.
Joe is a freelance journalist who has, over the past few decades, interviewed hundreds of guitarists for Guitar World, Guitar Player, MusicRadar and Classic Rock. He is also a former editor of Guitar World, contributing writer for Guitar Aficionado and VP of A&R for Island Records. He’s an enthusiastic guitarist, but he’s nowhere near the likes of the people he interviews. Surprisingly, his skills are more suited to the drums. If you need a drummer for your Beatles tribute band, look him up.